Credit: AP Photo/Brandon Dill
LeBron James continues to redefine the playbook of NBA longevity and fantasy basketball value. At age 40 and his 22nd season in the NBA, Los Angeles Lakers great LeBron is not only very much relevant, but elite, to fantasy operators all over the United States. The 2024-25 season saw LeBron contribute yet another year of all-around excellence, proving that basketball excellence is merely a matter of numbers. This sustained excellence is a key reason why so many fans are drawn to fantasy basketball, where the performance of real-life stars like LeBron can make or break a season. For those looking to join the action or gain an edge in their leagues, Underdog Fantasy Promo Code can provide bonuses and a head start on one of the most popular fantasy platforms.
Overcoming Age, Providing Fantasy Value
LeBron’s 2024-25 regular season stats are incredible by any measure, much less for a player two decades into his playing career. Across 70 games, James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game, shooting a crisp 51.2% from the floor and 37.9% from beyond three-point range. His free-throw shooting (77.3%) was the best since the 2013-14 season. In fantasy points leagues, he was averaging 47.1 points per game, which ranked ninth on the league-wide list among all NBA players and in the top 10 among forwards.
Why LeBron Is Still Elite for Fantasy Managers
Several reasons explain why LeBron is a stalwart for fantasy hoops teams:
Consistency: LeBron leads all major stat categories, offering a singular combination of points, rebounds, assists, and defensive production. This broad-based production is especially valuable in points and category leagues.
Durability: Despite being ancient, LeBron played in 70 games this season—a remarkable feat given the Lakers’ turnover of players and the NBA’s demanding schedule.
Giant Performances: He still makes big performances like a 42-point, 17-rebound, 8-assist production against Golden State on February 6, 2025.
Efficiency: LeBron’s shooting percentages remain in good shape, and turnovers are minimized to maximize his fantasy value.
Fantasy Outlook and Factors to Consider
While LeBron’s production is not in dispute, fantasy owners must consider the following points:
Load Management: The Lakers have managed LeBron’s minutes, especially in back-to-back situations. Managers must ensure that they have the depth on the bench to cover the rest days.
Role Evolution: As the Lakers have made roster moves and added players like Luka Dončić, LeBron has adapted by becoming a more playmaking and efficient Player, Helping to keep his fantasy value buoyed as his role evolves.
Playoff Boost: LeBron’s performance in the 2025 playoffs was outstanding, with averages of 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.8 blocks across five games.
LeBron’s 2024-25 Fantasy Production at a Glance
Regular Season:
- Points: 24.4 per game
- Assists: 8.2 per game
- Rebounds: 7.8 per game
- Steals: 1.0 per game
- Blocks: 0.6 per game
- Fantasy Points: 47.1 per game
- Games Played: 70
- Fantasy Rank (FPPG): 9th overall
Playoffs:
- Points: 25.4 per game
- Assists: 5.6 per game
- Rebounds: 9.0 per game
- Steals: 2.0 per game
- Blocks: 1.8 per game
- Games Played: 5
Other Top Fantasy Veterans in 2025-2026
LeBron tops a list of veteran stars who are still playing for fantasy owners. Here’s a look at the top fantasy veterans still playing at an elite level:
Stephen Curry (37, Warriors): Curry remains a top-15 fantasy pick at 24.5 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, with otherworldly three-point range and over 43 fantasy points per game.
Kevin Durant (36, Suns): Durant averaged 26.6 points on 52.7% shooting, along with 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 2.6 threes per game. He ranked 13th in fantasy averages, remaining one of the league’s most efficient scorers.
Anthony Davis (32, Mavericks): Despite injury problems, Davis averaged 24.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, and he was a top-10 fantasy asset.
Jimmy Butler (35, Warriors): Butler was a top-25 fantasy performer, averaging 17.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.4 steals per game for Golden State.
The Enduring Value of NBA Legends in Fantasy Leagues
Veteran superstars like LeBron, Curry, Durant, Davis, and Butler remain extremely valuable fantasy assets due to their consistency and proven histories. LeBron James’s ability to adapt, remain healthy, and excel in all statistical areas has maintained his status as fantasy basketball’s top dog well into his forties. Alongside other veteran superstars, he remains a trustworthy and frequently game-altering fantasy resource. As the NBA’s game evolves, these old-timers demonstrate that age and ability can still trump youth when it comes to fantasy success.